AGRICULTURAL GRASSES 35 



possesses no feeding ^alue, and is rejected by all herbivorous 

 animals. The name of Mat Grass arises from its being 

 employed as a material for mats. It also makes excellent 

 thatch. The time of flowering is July. 



ANTHOXANTHUM ODORATUM 

 (^weet-scented Vernal). 



This very distinct species is grown chiefly for the pleasant 

 odour it imparts to the hay crop, which enhances the price of 

 the hay, and it is only when the grass is dry that the fragi-ance 

 is fully distinguishable. So marked is this quahty that in the 

 South of Europe an extract is obtained from the plant which 

 is used in the manufacture of scent. But the gi-ass possesses 

 an agricultural value quite apart from the purpose it serves as 

 a condiment for cattle, for it is one of the earliest varieties, 

 coming into full flower at the beginning of May. It is a true 

 perennial, exceedingly hardy, and continues growing until late 

 in autumn, so that the aftermath is actually much larger in 

 bulk, as well as more nutritious, than the fii-st crop. This fact 

 clearly indicates that Sweet Vernal is as useful for grazing as 

 for cutting. One characteristic of this grass is its briUiant 

 gi'een colour ; hence it should be employed in mixtm-es for 

 ornamental grounds in larger proportion than would be reason- 

 able if the quantity of hay or grass were of primary con- 

 sideration ; while, for the park, especially round a mountain 

 home, it is invaluable. But to sow the seed for la\vns is a 

 mistake, although it has been recommended for that purpose. 

 The leaves are too broad and flat, and look unsightly in a 

 sward that is kept down close. 



Sweet A'ernal grows abundantly in some parts of Devon ^ 

 and in the Eastern Counties, and the plants invariably thrive 



^ A gentleman in South Devon has written me concerning Anthoxanthum 

 odoratum as follows : — 



* This grass grows wild in this neighbourhood in the hedgerows, and cattle are 



D 2 



